Dedicated to understanding Hyperthyroidism , Hypothyroidism and its symptoms

Grave’s Disease

Graves disease, also called as diffuse thyrotoxic goiter, is an autoimmune disorder that results in hyperthyroidism (over activity of the thyroid gland). It is a common cause of severe hyperthyroidism. The condition has been discovered by an Irish physician, Robert Graves about 150 years ago. Grave’s disease accounts for about 90 percent of cases presenting with hyperthyroidism. It commonly occurs during middle age and can affect children, adults and elderly. It involves a strong hereditary factor and commonly affects more number of females than males. Although, Graves’ disease can’t be cured; however, the associated symptoms like ophthalmopathy, hyperthyroidism, and psychiatric complications can be effectively treated.

Causes and risk factors

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Grave’s disease, which develops due to an abnormal immune function that forces the thyroid gland to secrete excess of thyroid hormone.

Graves’ disease occurs due to the malfunction of immune system that is programmed to release abnormal antibodies into the blood stream, which physiologically mimic the action of TSH.

The major factor that triggers the production of auto-antibody is not yet known; however, few cases develop TSH receptor auto antibodies due to genetic predisposition.

It has been believed that viral or bacterial infection may stimulate these antibodies to cross-react with the human TSH receptor, thus contributing for thyroid autoimmunity in patients with genetic susceptibility.

The production of aberrant antibodies may be influenced by heredity and other characteristics that increase susceptibility.

Graves’ disease can be triggered by different causes like trauma or surgery to the thyroid gland, infarction of a thyroid adenoma,and percutaneous injection of ethanol.

It is believed to be caused by both genetics and environmental factors, like stress.